Danny Wright: A pianist with a passion for the future...

Pianist Danny Wright

There is nothing more heartwarming than to sit down and have a conversation with someone who has embraced Las Vegas and its culture as quickly as pianist Danny Wright has. I have met many people who come to our community and dispel it as a cultureless wasteland covered in neon, but not Danny. In a brief two years, the Fort Worth Texas native, came to Las Vegas and fell in love with his new home. He quickly realized that Las Vegas is not what many outsiders would have you believe. That despite the rumors, Las Vegas actually does have a heart and soul and its a place to call home.

Brought out to Las Vegas to open the Aria Hotel and Casino at City Center, Danny became part of a very exclusive club of performers to headline the world famous Las Vegas Strip. With passion and faith in his heart, Danny's desire is not just to perform on this most recognized strip of road but also to leave a positive mark in his new home.

Using his talent as an accomplished pianist he embarked on a noble cause to help Las Vegas' school children attend musical performances. Danny understands, as all of us do in the arts, that a well rounded education has to include the cultural arts. Children when exposed to the arts, especially music, do better in school and are better prepared for the outside world than children who are not. In addition to helping children, he also brings his music to seniors in assisted living centers and to hospitals. With a keen understanding of the healing power of music he knows that the sounds he creates with a piano can only enhance the lives of those with ailments and disabilities.

This year Danny embarked on his greatest endeavor yet, the founding of the Danny Wright Foundation of Music. The goal of the foundation is to bring a "program with partnerships to present and implement music programs and cultural arts for the community “Healing the planet one heart at a time. Dedicated to the enrichment of the lives of all people with the appreciation and understanding of the healing power of music. Helping people the Wright way is the mission of the foundation."

Through this foundation Danny hopes to accomplish many exciting things that will not just help elevate Las Vegas to new heights but leave an indelible mark on the future of our community. I suspect that such an accomplished musician, with amazing energy and passion like Danny Wright will have no problem doing this and many more great things for this radiant city we call home.

On December 2nd, Danny will be having a special concert to help further his cause. With a list of well known local performers and personalities Friday evenings show at the Historic Binion's Hotel and Casino in Downtown will definitely be a night to remember. I look at it as the perfect way to start the holidays with style by giving to a great and noble cause.

For more information about the Danny Wright Foundation of Music please visit -  http://www.dw-foundation.org/

BRAVO!!!

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Jonny Detiger at Brett Wesley Gallery...

Not since my friend Mike and I stared at Salvador Dali's Hallucinogenic Toreador for hours have I been so fascinated by the elements of a work of art. That opportunity presented itself this weekend with the works of Jonny Detiger. As I meandered into Brett Wesley Gallery in 18b, Gallery Director Victoria Hart gave me the grand tour of this amazing collection. His refreshing and diverse collection of works truly demonstrate the versatility of an artist who is not afraid to experiment with various types of media. From sculptural to the painted canvas and even the subliminal Jonny takes you on a happy ride with this collection.

From a distance his paintings look like they are covered with jewels and as you slowly approach the works you are presented with a kaleidoscope of messages, dancing figures, facets and in some cases the perfect state of discotheque. Jonny's work had me dancing as if I was listening to Energy Flash by Joey Beltram. Even his mechanical sculptural pieces are fit for either a home or a night club. His work definitely struck a cord which left me completely satisfied.

I have to give credit to the crew at BWG for curating yet another amazing show. Stream of Consciousness runs through the end of 2011 so make sure and get to Brett Wesley Gallery and enjoy this amazing show!

For more information about Brett Wesley Gallery please visit their site at -
http://www.brettwesleygallery.com/

For more information about the artist - http://www.jonnydetiger.com/

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

The Kaiser Report... Musical happenings for the week of November 28...

Thanksgiving is over and now we can get back to what is important in the world... Arts and Culture that is! Here is Laraine Kaiser's musical happenings about town.

Have a great week everyone!


Monday November 28th 5:30pm
Guitar Master Class with Artist in Residence Martha Masters
UNLV
Beam Music Center, room 159
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-895-3332

Tuesday November 29th 6:00pm
Guitar Recital, Artist in Residence Martha Masters
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3332

Tuesday November 29th 7:30pm
UNLV String Chamber Music recital featuring works for strings and piano including
Brahms, Dvorak and Mendelssohn
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3332

Wednesday November 30th 7:30pm
Doctoral Piano Recital, Spencer Baker
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3332

Thursday December 1st 7:30pm
UNLV Percussion Ensemble Recital
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3332

Thursday December 1st 7:30pm
Music of Old China, Lecture and PerformanceUNLV Barrick Museum
4505 Maryland Pkwy.
Las Vegas NV 89119
Free and Open to the Public
more info: 702-455-7340

Friday December 2nd 5:30pm
Doctoral Oboe recital, Matt Guschi and Mark Runkles
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3332

Friday December 2nd 6:00-10:00pm

First Friday Las Vegas Arts District,
art, music, food and more
shuttles available
maps at the heart of the festival:
the Funk House

1228 S. Casino Center
free and open to the public!
more info : 384-0092
http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/next.html

Friday December 2nd, 7:30pm

UNLV Choral Ensembles & Chamber Orchestra

Artemis Ham Concert Hall

4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154

http://pac.unlv.edu/

Saturday December 3rd 12:30pm
Clarinet Ensemble
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-895-3332

Saturday December 3rd 3:00pm
Graduate Woodwind Quartet
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-895-3332

Saturday December 3rd 2:00pm
Percussion from around the world
Winchester Cultural Center
3130 McLeod Dr. Las Vegas NV 89121
tickets $5
more info 702-455-7340

Sunday December 4th 3:30pm
Doctoral Recital Wen Zhang, mezzo-soprano
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-895-3332

Sunday December 4th 4:00pm
Organ Concert
Christ Church Episcopal
2000 South Maryland Parkway at St. Louis
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-735-7655

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Black Friday in 18b and Downtown...

With the holiday shopping season in full swing I would like to encourage all my readers to support the arts by giving the gift of art. Many of the wonderful galleries, shops and small businesses will be open this Friday to welcome all of you. If you are looking for a unique gift for a friend or loved one there is nothing greater than giving a unique work of art. Besides it is a great way to avoid the lines at the big retailers and support the backbone of the American economy; small businesses. Also another wonderful gift you can give is to a charitable organization making a difference in Las Vegas.

Here is a listing of small businesses in Downtown Las Vegas that will be open this Friday! Thanks to Cindy Funkhouser at the Funkhouse Antiques for sending this my way!

Arts District
Galleries, Antique Stores and Vintage Boutiques!
Great Deals and Hours--Black Friday Noon-8PM!

Las Vegas galleries and retailers throughout the downtown 18b Arts District will be open from noon to 8PM on Black Friday, November 25, offering holiday shoppers the chance to buy unique handmade gifts by local artists. Participating galleries will offer a selection of pieces specially priced for the holiday season, with prices starting at $5.00. Antique and vintage stores with great discounts!

Arts District shoppers will enjoy the satisfaction of supporting local artists and businesses while buying truly meaningful gifts available nowhere else! You will be buying Made in U.S.A. and shopping vintage/antique is as green as it gets.

RSVP on facebook for Free Raffle tickets @ selected locations! http://www.facebook.com/events/249719328417274/

• 222 Gallery - Imperial
• The Attic Vintage Clothing/Accessories - Main St.
• Twelve 21 Gallery - Main St.
• Blackbird Studios - Commerce St. Studios
• Brett Wesley Gallery - Casino Center Blvd.
• Circadian Galleries - Commerce St. Studios
• City of the World - Colorado and Casino Center
• Cornerstone Gallery - Colorado and Casino Center
• Gypsy Caravan Antiques - Colorado and Casino Center
• Gypsy Den Antiques - Colorado and Casino Center
• PeacenNArt Studio - Arts Factory
• Retro Vegas vintage - Main St.
• The Funk House Antiques/Vintage - Colorado and Casino Center
• Art @ The Funk House - Colorado and Casino Center
• Sin City Gallery - Arts Factory
• Statement Gallery - Arts Factory
• Trifecta Gallery - Arts Factory
• Studio 810 - 810 Las Vegas Boulevard
• Emergency Arts - Fremont Street
• Buy local!

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Things to be thankful for...

As I sit back and contemplate the world around me I think about all the wonderful things that I am thankful for. That is why I really enjoy Thanksgiving, the most American of holidays. A holiday not filled with abstract dogmas or rules but simply a day to remember all the great things that make us Americans. Thanksgiving marks the beginning march towards the end of the year when we celebrate the holidays with family and friends and prepare for a new year, new beginnings and many new things to be thankful for.

As I look back at this year I ask myself what are the many things that I am thankful for? Goodness knows there are many so here are a few I would like to share on this wonderful Thanksgiving Day...

• I am thankful for my family, friends and many many new acquaintances that I have met over the last few years. 
• I am thankful for my health and that of my family, friends, acquaintances and neighbors 
• I am thankful for the Cultural Arts that is making life in Southern Nevada so enjoyable
• I am thankful for the economy finally beginning to show signs of life
• I am thankful for the redevelopment of Downtown into a livable, sustainable and fun neighborhood to live in
• I am thankful to all of my readers out there that have supported the blog 
• I am thankful for my career and my creative coach who without her I would have never started many new and exciting projects
• I am thankful that I am finally writing a book about a great piece of history! Ill be even more thankful when I finish it!
• I am thankful to my faith in humanity because I know despite our differences we are all looking for the same thing. Happiness!!!

Have a wonderful and culturally filled Thanksgiving everyone!!!

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

A new contemporary art gallery opens in 18b...

Sometimes the word serendipity comes to mind when you stumble upon situations that create that perfect moment when all the stars align and harmony comes to the senses. Well that moment happened Saturday evening upon my arrival at The Lady Silvia for the Iowa Writers Workshop. No less than a second upon entering the doors I was immediately drawn by the bright white light that was permeating from an opening through what is usually a dark wood paneled hallway. To my surprise I was greeted by an art exhibition of the works by Wess Dahl-Berg. This exhibition marks the first art gallery show at Soho Lofts since Naomi Arin Contemporary Art shuttered its doors in 2009.

Not just was it exciting to see an art gallery return to Soho Lofts but it was delightful to speak to the artist himself and the proprietor of the gallery Amanda Harris. Just getting the opportunity to speak to Wess made my evening, and musing with his collection left me artistically fulfilled. Not just is Wess an amazing artist but he is also an art theorist and his book Highbrow Shamanism: A vision quest for the intrinsic value of art is a tome to his theories about art and society. So stay tuned for my review on that subject.

With a new art gallery gracing the first floor of Soho Lofts this is definitely more positive news for Downtown and the growing arts district.

Amanda Harris Gallery of Contemporary Art is still working out the days and times they will be open so as soon as its solidified I will post it. If you just happen to be at the Lady Silvia you may get lucky with a sneak peek at the gallery and the wonderful treasures inside.

For more information about Wess Dahl-Berg - http://www.wessdahlberg.com/
For more information about The Lady Silvia - http://www.theladysilvia.com

Wess Dahl-Berg stands with his collection
@ Amanda Harris Gallery of
Contemporary Art

This collection must be seen up close to truly
understand what you are looking at... Its pretty amazing...

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

The Kaiser Report... Musical happenings for the week of Thanksgiving...

Here is Laraine Kaiser's musical happenings for the week. So get out and listen to some music before the craziness of Thanksgiving takes hold!

Have a wonderful week everyone and of course Happy Thanksgiving!

Monday, November 21st 5:30pm
Morelli Wind Quintet (flute, horn, clarinet, oboe and bassoon)
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the publicmore info 702-895-2787

Monday, November 21st 6:00pm
High Desert Horns
UNLV Beam Music Center, Room 160
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the public
more info 702-895-2787

Tuesday, November 22nd 8:00pm
Taras Krysa conducts UNLV Symphony OrchestraBeethoven Piano Concerto No. 3, Haydn Cello Concerto No. 1 and Schumann
special guests Ingrit Flitter and Julian Schwarz
Artemis Ham Concert Hall
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV
$75, $50, $35 Senior/Military/Disabled Student tickets available $14.25 one hour prior to concert while supplies last
(702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info

Wednesday, November 23rd 7:30pm
Mykola Suk, piano professor at UNLV studio concert of
Liszt including pianists Jae Ahn-Benton, Spencer Baker, Zheni Atanasova, Zhu Sun, and
Philip Fortenberry
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the public
more info 702-895-2787

This announcement focuses on classical instrumental music

There are many great choir, solo vocal, pop/ broadway, jazz, theater etc. concerts
around town check out:

http://music.unlv.edu/events.html
http://www.facebook.com/livemusicinvegas
http://gatewayartsfoundation.org/schedule.htm
http://www.greenvalleypres.com/
http://www.csn.edu/about/campuslife/performingarts/events.asp
http://www.lvccld.org/events/index.cfm?nForm=1&nEvnttp=11&nLbr=0&sKwrd=&perpage=10
http://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm
http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/Depts/parks/Events/Pages/default.aspx
http://www.hendersonlive.com/calendar/?277[command]=search

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Internet problems & Downtown Happenings...

Its always easy to blame the cable company when the internet goes down but in my case actually it has to do with theft! Oh well, so without the internet I had a few glitches in posting over the last few days. But really, I do not have an excuse considering I could have easily loaded up a few posts via my trusted I-Phone. In any case I am back online at the SkyPad so stay tuned for my gaggle of posts...

Now with all that said let us not forget that Painters and Poets on the Patio is happening this evening at the World Famous Arts Factory home to Bar + Bistro too.

In addition there is always things happening in and around Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas. Lets see Insert Coins sounds tempting, DCR anyone? A little grooving @ Vanguard, Some signing at Don't Tell Mamas, Hispster action at the Beauty Bar? Maybe the Griffin for some serious fireside convo perhaps, maybe even some artsy activities at the Artifice... The Lady Chablis at the Lady Silvia... Most definitely... And a late night Mac and Cheese at the Beat... Its gonna be a great Saturday night I suspect...

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Shark Toof rockin Joseph Watson Gallery...

I am so excited about the Oh... Nature at Joseph Watson Gallery inside the Arts Factory that I couldn't wait to blog about. So I am sitting inside Bar + Bistro blogging LIVE!!!

Here is a photo preview and artist statement... Enjoy...

OHH...NATURE is an exploration in the expression itself. The expression implies an open interpretation of Shark Toof’s recent paintings from his feature in Portsmouth Museum of Art's 'Street A.K.A. Museum' Exhibition, 'Nature Will Always Win,' solo exhibition at LeBasse Projects in Los Angeles, and 'Album Of Nature,' solo Exhibition at ABV Gallery in Atlanta Georgia. OHH...NATURE points the finger at nature addressing the question of where do we come from, our connection with all living things, and our inner voice. Through dense layers of line, painterly rendering, graffiti tags, spraypaint stenciling, and nostalgic imagery these questions are pronounced.










- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society rocks Mendelssohn's St. Paul...

Though St. Paul's oratorio by Felix Mendelssohn is not as widely performed as George Frideric Handel's Messiah it is nonetheless one of the most important choral pieces of the early 19th century. Rarely performed in its entirety because of its length, the Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society (SNMAS) Chorus and Orchestra were up to the challenge and Sunday afternoons performance was truly divine.

I knew we were in for a treat when the choir streamed on to the stage and filled up the stall with almost 80 singers, not to mention an orchestra of over 30! With Dr. Douglas Peterson conducting 114 singers and musicians, the performance at the Artemis Ham Concert Hall at UNLV was one that will not be easily forgotten.

Composed by Felix Mendelssohn and first performed in 1837, St. Paul is a liturgical story of martyrdom, divine intervention and the celebration of the nascent Christian church. Influenced by the new and old testaments of the Bible the concert is set in two parts. The whole performance is roughly two hours long with a short intermission.

To witness such a complicated yet amazing performance by one of the most underrated composers of the 19th Century left me with a desire to inquire more about a man who only lived to the age of 38. It is without a doubt that some of the most beautiful musical compositions were born during the Romantic Era and Mendelssohn was a significant part of that movement. With composers like Beethoven opening the door and fellow composers such as Franz Liszt, Frederic Chopin and Hector Berlioz following-suit, the 19th Century is rich with music that permeate our lives today.

With SNMAS performing St. Paul's this past weekend and La Misa Criolla just a few weeks earlier at the Winchester Community Center I wonder to myself why this community is not more supportive of this amazing organization. So I leave a challenge to all of my readers; go out and recruit your friends to come and witness the rest of SNMAS performances. Follow the link below for a complete list of concerts and get yourselves enculturated. No excuses!!!

For more information about the Southern Nevada Musical arts Society please follow this link - http://www.snmas.com/

BRAVO!!!

The Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society
Chorus & Orchestra at the
Artemis Ham Concert Hall on the campus
of  UNLV

(Photos by Brian Paco Alvarez)
Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

The Kaiser Report... Musical happenings for the week of November 14...

The "Flashlight"
@ the Artemis Ham Concert Hall

Here is Laraine kaiser's weekly update of musical happening about town.

Have a great week everyone!

Tuesday, November 15th 7:30pm
Pianist Dr. Joanne Chang (UNLV artist in residence)
performs Hsiao, Tsai, Pi Huang, Dun Zannoni and
Ravel's Tombeau de Couperin!
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Public
more info 702-895-3011

Thursday, November 17th 2:30-4:00pm
Violin Masterclass with Rachel Barton!
Clark High School
4291 W Pennwood Ave.
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Free and Open to the Public!!

Thursday, November 17th 3:30-7:30pm
Las Vegas Philharmonic Guild open house
art and music wine, art, appetizers, singer Gail Beckman, Glass art and jewelry for sale to benefit Las Vegas
Philharmonic Guild
Glassic Art
5850 S. Polaris Ave. Suite 700
Las Vegas
$35
more info 702-562-1877 rsvp by 15th!

Thursday, November 17th 7:30pm
UNLV Wind Orchestra Concert
Artemis Ham Concert Hall
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV $10, $8 Senior/Military/Disabled and Students
(702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info

Friday, November 18th 12:00pm noon
Bishr Hijazi ensemble Dr. Hijazi, Oud Laraine, Violin Azzi bros percussion and dancer tba!
traditional arabic music and danceJury Assembly Room
Lloyd D. George US Courthouse
333 Las Vegas Blvd. south
Free and Open to the Public bring photo id!
more info: 702-229-3515

Friday, November 18th 7:00pm
American flutist Jessica Pierce and Bosnian guitarist Almer Imamovic perform
classical, folk and original compositions
Winchester Community Center
3130 McLeod Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89121
Tickets are $10 in advance $12 at door
For reservations, more info call 702-455-7030

Friday, November 18th 7:30pm
"The Impresario" by Mozart and "La Canterina" by J. Haydn performed by
UNLV Opera Theatre ("Divas")
Thu Nov 17 UNLV Wind Orchestra Concert II 7:30pm HCH Free w/stu ID
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
$10, $8 Senior/Military UNLV Faculty Staff
UNLV and CCSD students free with IDmore info 702-895-2787

Saturday, November 19th 2:00pm
CCSD Honors Orchestra Concert
Artemis Ham Concert Hall
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV
Free and Open to the Public
(702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info

Saturday, November 19th 7:30pm
"The Impresario" by Mozart and "La Canterina" by J. Haydn performed by
UNLV Opera Theatre ("Divas")
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
$10, $8 Senior/Military UNLV Faculty Staff
UNLV and CCSD students free with IDmore info 702-895-2787

Saturday, November 19th 8:00pm
Violinist Rachel Barton performs Glazunov Concerto with Las Vegas Philharmonic
Copland's Appalachian Spring, and Schumann Symphony No. 3
also on the program pre-concert talk at 7:15
Artemis Ham Concert Hall
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV
$35-78, 50% off for Students with ID!
(702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info

Sunday, November 20th 3:00pm
Violin recital by Chelle Reed with help from pianists Dr. Nelson Hall and Florence Clarambeau
Gateway Arts Foundation
Grace in the Desert Episcopal Church
2004 Spring Gate Lane
Las Vegas NV 89134
$15 cash or check only!! no Credit Cards.
benefits young talent in Las Vegas
more info 702-255-0695

Sunday, November 20th 7:30pm
Oboe recital by Artist in Residence Richard Kravchak
UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the publicmore info 702-895-2787

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

The Kaiser Report... Musical happenings for the week of November 7...

SNMAS @
Artemis Ham Concert Hall
UNLVhttp://www.snmas.com/

I am very excited about this weeks line up because there will be another performance by the Southern Nevada Musical Arts Orchestra and Choir at the Artemis Ham Concert Hall at UNLV. Their last performance at the Winchester Cultural Center left me with the need to see them again, so I am most definitely looking forward to Sunday's performance.

Have a great week everyone and as I always say... Get out and get enculturated!

Wednesday November 9th 8:00pm
Classical Guitar Elena Papandreou

UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Tickets $40, $36 Senior/Military/Disabled and Students

More info 702-895-3011

Thursday November 10th 7:30pm
Contemporary Music "Nextet"

UNLV Doc Rando Hall
Beam Music Center
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Free and Open to the Publicmore info 702-895-3011

Saturday November 12th 7:30pm
Arrangements of Ragtime for chamber group ('Musica Lumina')
Green Valley Presbyterian Church
1798 Wigwam Parkway
Henderson, NV 89074
Free and Open to the Public a free will donation will be received
more info 702-454-8484 

Sunday November 13th 3:00pm
Mendelssohn's Oratorio: St. Paul 

Southern Nevada Musical Arts Orchestra and Choir Concert
Artemis Ham Concert Hall UNLV
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV
$18, $12 Senior/Military/Disabled, $8 Students with ID
(702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info

http://www.snmas.com/

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

The artsy pick of the week...

This weekends weather may have put a damper on some arts festivities but not the spirit! First Friday and the Vegas Valley Book Festival suffered thanks to mother nature and Las Vegas' fear of wet weather but a few die-hards braved it all to see what all the artsy fuss was about...

Here are two images I took with my trusted I-Phone of a fabulous little art show at Blackbird Studios that left me with a really big smile.

In a Sea of Good Intentions: New Work by Su Limbert
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=243956792327736

For more information about Blackbird Studios -
http://blackbirdstudioslv.com/

Su Limbert at Blackbird Studios

Yep it's real and recycled China...
Pretty cool...

(Photos by Brian Paco Alvarez)

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

Talent, Tassels and Tease... Burlesque at its best @ Artifice... TONIGHT!

Deep routed in the history and essence of Las Vegas, Burlesque teases the senses to such an extreme that it leaves you hungry for so much more *wink*. Artifice in 18b shows it naughty side with what is expected to be one of the best Burlesque shows to ever grace the Arts District. This evenings performance will feature the talents of Cha Cha Velour, Calliope, Lou Lou Roxy and Vi Vacious. 

So if you have some time and if you don't, cancel what you are doing, and come Downtown and celebrate the Tease with these amazing vixens. See you tonight! No excuses!

Artifice Delicious
1025 First Street, #3
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 489-6339

21 and over only...

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...

First Friday November has arrived...

Well talk about First Friday sneaking up on you! It was just a few days ago that I was completly preoccupied with Halloween and now BAM its time for the arts festivities Downtown. With the weather finally beginning to show signs of Fall we can pull out our sweaters, fine hats and Hot Totties and enjoy some hot art. Here is Ryan Reason's Cultural Week update with a listing of what is happening around Downtown!

For more information about First Friday Las Vegas -
http://www.firstfridaylasvegas.com/

Have a great weekend everyone!

Inside the Arts Factory

Gia Ray @
Sin City Gallery

Sin City Gallery
Studio 100
VOLUPTUOUS by Gia Ray
Las Vegas artist Gia Ray presents an intriguing look at sexuality through her new series VOLUPTUOUS. Showing over 17 new pieces that features women of all shapes and size, Ray's traditional palette is black ink on white with an occasional splash of red to tranquilize the senses and leave the viewer wanting more. This show, unlike any previous, is done in a sexually provocative way, while retaining the innocence she desires in her pieces.
Scott Sansdoval will also be presenting playful sculptures to delight gallery patrons with his sophisticated interpretation of the female form.
November 3 - 26, 2011
www.sincitygallery.com
Dr. Laura @ 702.608.2461

Anthony Freda @
Trifecta Gallery

Trifecta Gallery

Studio #135
Keep on the Sunnyside - Anthony Freda
A self described "Lowbrow Information Warrior", Freda is a man on a mission to unlock hearts and minds the world over.
His images of wry humor and ironic social commentary have been published in Time, The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, The New York Times Op-Ed pages.
American Illustration, The Society of Illustrators and Communication Arts illustration annuals have all recognized his work with high honors. Freda illustrations are routinely seen on millions of computer screens globally on both mainstream and alternative media news sites.
Preview Thursday November 3 6-8pm
Exhibition runs through November 25th, 2011 (Open Black Friday!)
www.trifectagallery.com
marty@trifectagallery.com
702.366.7001

Joseph Watson Collection
Studio 115
OH...Nature / A solo exhibition by Los Angeles artist Shark Toof
Shark Toof returns to Vegas with a new mission. He wants to leave a lasting
impression that you dont have to carry so much guilt listening to nature. Various work will include mixed media panels and installations.
Preview Thursday Nov 3, 6-9pm
First Friday Nov 4, 6-11 pm
www.josephwatsoncollection.com
info@josephwatsoncollection.com

Jaikowski Studios
Studio #115 Backroom
Where Las Vegas Entertainment comes alive....
From oil and Acrylics to Pen and Inks......
For an appointment or more info: 702-204-9335
Jaikowskistudios@gmail.com
http://jaikowskistudios.com/
Open every Preview Thurs 7-10PM
Every First Friday 6-11PM

Christian Gabriel Gallery
Suite 125
"To the Corps!"
Happy 236th Birthday to my beloved Marine Corps! This showing will feature works from the "This Is Who We Are" USMC fundraiser. 30% of funds will be donated to www.hiddenwounds.org
Preview Thursday/ 1st Friday, November 3,4 6p-10p
www.christiangabrielart.com
702-372-0544

Karen Wheeler @
Jenny Valdez Inc. Gallery

Jenny Valdez Inc. Gallery

Studio 160
Presenting Claire Bear
Featuring works by Las Vegas artist Karen Wheeler
November 3 & November 4, 2011
www.JennyValdez.com
alettertojenny@gmail.com

Hillary Salon

Studio 250
G-STEEZ magazine Launch Party
Las Vegas' premier skateboard, art and culture magazine produced solely by Las Vegas students, representing free-thinking and individualism.
Friday November 4th 6-10pm
gsteez.com
contact: Deven Chase devenchase@gsteez.com

CAC - Contemporary Arts Center
Suite 120
Affect/Effect - Opening Reception- Thursday, Oct 6, 2011, 6-9pm
By deconstructing the gallery, artist Scott Carter attempts to display a relationship narrative of comfort and re-addressing of basic construction design and systems in contemporary architecture. He achieves this from cutting, stacking and assembling sections of drywall that are cut from the surrounding walls.
Tues-Sat, Oct 6-Nov 19, 2011, 12pm-5pm
www.lasvegascac.org

8 Martinis Gallery
Studio 205
"Overflow" Face Up Art by Dar Freeland / Mandala Sand Painting by Dar Freeland
Face Up Fine Art Giclees, Original Acrylics on Canvas, and Books by Dar Freeland. Also a live demonstration of a Tibetan Style sand mandala is being constructed in the gallery as a healing meditation for people with cancer.
First Friday, September 2, 2011 • 6pm - 10pm
www.8martinis.com
dar8martinis@aol.com

Cricket Studio & Face Up Gallery
Studio 210
In Cricket Studio: "Primitives" by Brian Swanson
Fine Art Acrylics and mixed media on board by Brian Swanson
In Face Up Gallery: "Helpline" Face Up Art by Dar Freeland
Face Up Fine Art Giclees, Original Acrylics on Canvas by Dar Freeland
Preview Thursday, September 1, 2011 • 6pm - 9pm and First Friday, September 2, 2011 • 6pm - 10pm
www.cricketstudio.com/primitives
brianswanson.studio@gmail.com
www.faceupstudio.com/press
faceupstudio@aol.com

PeaceNart Studio
Studio #230
Guest Artist at PeaceNart. Geneva Marquez
3 Baaad Sheep Select Pieces
APH - Controlled Chaos-Series 3

Around the Neighborhood

Retro Vegas
1211 S Main Street,
702-384-2700,
Mon - Sat 11 - 6 with late hours on First Friday
“Jenessa Kenway’s Vehicle Care”
Jenessa Kenway is a videographer exploring line, pattern and color mixed with her thoughts resulting in use of squares and rectangles to frame elements in her paintings – only for the patterns to escape their borders and creep into other areas. She is playing with balancing an emotional versus scientific understanding of the physical vehicles we inhabit.
Opens First Friday, November 4, at 6:00 pm - continues through until November 30.
retro-vegas.com

Blackbird Studios
1551 South Commerce Street #A
Celebrating Existence: A Show of Atheism.
A collection of work embracing atheistic principles and philosophies, aesthetically merging the magnificent and the mundane. Political suicide and social ostracization be damned as these artists proudly show their absence of faith in work ranging from that which supernovas with seriousness to ones that implode in their levity.
At Blackbird Studios from November 3rd through the 26th.
http://blackbirdstudioslv.com
702-782-0319 l

702-742-6241

Brett Wesley Gallery
1112 S. Casino Center Blvd
Stream of Consciousness featuring Dutch artist/designer Jonny Detiger.
In the hands of New York artist Jonny Deti...ger, conversations, chance encounters, thoughts and projections merge into a happy, delirious stream of consciousness strewn across the canvas. Through a mix of paintings and moving sculptures this work explores human interactions through a kaleidoscope of iconic imagery, text, color and light.
Opening and artist reception will be Thursday November 3, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This event is free to the public.
The artist will also be available for meet & greet on First Friday for 6-9pm.
The exhibition will run through November 26, 2011.
victoria@BrettWesley.com
http://www.BrettWesleyGallery.com
facebook.com/BrettWesleyGallery
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12 - 6:00 p.m.

Las Vegas
Watercolor Society
@ Holsum Design Center

Holsum Design Center
Las Vegas Watercolor Society @ H. Stephen Jackson, Architect
241 W Charleston Blvd., Suite 107

Las Vegas, Nevada 89102

City of the World Gallery
1229 Casino Center at Colorado

Vegas Artists Guild exhibition

With over 25 artists this is a must see destination in 18b - Las Vegas' Arts District

http://cityoftheworld.org/

Fremont East Entertainment District

Emergency Arts
520 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, Nevada 89101
http://www.emergencyartslv.com

Erin Stelmon @
Kleven Contemporary
Emergency Arts

Kleven Contemporary @ Emergency Arts
HERO WORSHIP!!
work by Erin Stellmon is on view for November First Friday!
Come down for candy and art!! And First Friday good times!!
Kleven Contemporary will be open 6-10, November 4th!

The Weekend

Saturday November 5th:

Talky Trees
On the Patio
Bar + Bistro @ the Arts Factory
Starting at 5pm
FEATURING:
FREE POETRY WORKSHOP led by JOHN SURVIVOR BLAKE.
Feature Performers this month include, poetry by John Survivor Blake and music by Shaun DeGraff

We are the Talky Trees: Free Arts & Entertainment Among Friends
What exactly is Talky Trees? It's a 7-hour Arts festival centered around two ideas:
1) Self-expression of the audience such that they and the performers are one and the same! YOU have the gift of art, and we encourage you to realize it.
2) Collaboration between mediums: painters coloring a piece to a poet who then gives his words to the music of others.The artist and the audience? Same people.
This is an art show all about collaboration of all possible mediums. Music, poetry, painting, performance art. What every you are into, bring whatever craft you love and share it with us

Sunday November 6th:

Kidz Creative Korner and Brunch!
On the Patio
Bar + Bistro @ the Arts Factory
Born and Raised Productions presents ~
KIDZ CREATIVE KORNER on the Patio @ Bar & Bistro inside The Arts Factory!!
Tour the Arts Factory and visit all the galleries with the little culture lovers in your life. Have brunch on the Patio while your little Picasso makes up a masterpiece.
This will be the 2nd KCK, which will regularly be held on the 1st & 3rd Sunday of every month! This event is geared around parents & their children exploring creativity together through the arts. They can take arts out of our schools but not our community!!
11am to 3pm this Sunday, November 6th

Capture Downtown Photo Competition exhibition
Emergency Arts

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

Have You donated to KNPR? Pledge Now at http://www.knpr.org/index.cfm

Brian Paco Alvarez enculturating Las Vegas into the millennium...